Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[The Showdown Effect adds pair of new maps, heroes in free update]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/the-showdown-effect-adds-pair-of-new-maps-heroes-in-free-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/the-showdown-effect-adds-pair-of-new-maps-heroes-in-free-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/08/the-showdown-effect-adds-pair-of-new-maps-heroes-in-free-update/#comments
Owners of The Showdown Effect can download some free DLC, adding a pair of new maps and playable heroes to Arrowhead Game Studios' latest. South Eastwood is an old west town, while Fort Fiesta follows a Mexican fort motif - both maps were heavily inspired by Spaghetti Westerns, Italian-produced films for Hollywood such as The Good, the Bad and the Ugly.

The first new hero to fight her way onto The Showdown Effect's roster is Thelma Vaine, a pink-haired British spy armed with a cloaking device. The other new combatant is Dr. Johnny Bionic, whose robotic drill-saw-arm is plagued with a murderous lust. Sounds like that'd be a benefit, given the situation.

Finally, this free update is rounded out by a "series of Reddit costume pieces." These can be purchased through the in-game store using unlocked currency.

JoystiqThe Showdown Effect adds pair of new maps, heroes in free update originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 May 2013 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowhead-game-studiosmacparadoxParadox-Interactivepcspaghetti-westernsteamthe-showdown-effectWed, 08 May 2013 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Showdown Effect trailer dances the ballet of death]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/02/the-showdown-effect-trailer-dances-the-ballet-of-death/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/02/the-showdown-effect-trailer-dances-the-ballet-of-death/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/02/the-showdown-effect-trailer-dances-the-ballet-of-death/#comments
You may think that ballet means lots of twirling and dancers in tutus, but this trailer for The Showdown Effect attempts to prove it's much better as a vehicle for slow-mo gun jousts.

JoystiqThe Showdown Effect trailer dances the ballet of death originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 02 Mar 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowhead-game-studiosmacParadox-Interactivepcthe-showdown-effectSat, 02 Mar 2013 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Showdown Effect leaps into beta today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/01/the-showdown-effect-leaps-into-beta-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/01/the-showdown-effect-leaps-into-beta-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/01/the-showdown-effect-leaps-into-beta-today/#comments Pre-orders for The Showdown Effect will gain instant access to a closed beta test today, publisher Paradox Interactive has announced. Paradox will also be sending out invites to those who've signed up for the beta here.

The Showdown Effect is the next game from Magicka developer Arrowhead Game Studios. It's a 2.5D arcade-style competitive multiplayer shooter that draws inspiration from '80s and '90s action flicks.

The Showdown Effect launches in March in two different flavors: the standard $10 version and the $20 digital deluxe version. Pre-ordering the standard version includes an exclusive playable character and "Fusion Sabre of Light" weapon on top of the instant beta access; digital deluxe pre-orders get an exclusive character, a pair of costumes and weapons, plus a permanent in-game XP boost, soundtrack download, free copy of Magicka and (phew!) early access to play the final version of The Showdown Effect on March 1.

JoystiqThe Showdown Effect leaps into beta today originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Feb 2013 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowhead-game-studiosbetamacParadox-Interactivepcthe-showdown-effectFri, 01 Feb 2013 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Showdown Effect targets March launch, $10 price tag; beta signups tomorrow]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/17/the-showdown-effect-targets-march-launch-10-price-tag-beta-si/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/17/the-showdown-effect-targets-march-launch-10-price-tag-beta-si/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/17/the-showdown-effect-targets-march-launch-10-price-tag-beta-si/#comments
During a meeting with Paradox VP of business development Shams Jorjani last week, Joystiq learned that upcoming multiplayer action-shooter The Showdown Effect will cost $10 when it launches on Steam, which Paradox currently has lined up for March 2013. And starting tomorrow, Paradox will hold signups for an open beta for all interested parties.

Jorjani sums up The Showdown Effect as "Worms in real-time" with a decidedly '80s and '90s action movie and television influence. "We've turned that into a 2.5D action online brawler - the closest game to date might maybe be Smash Bros. or PlayStation All-Stars: Battle Royale." He also likened The Showdown Effect to Soldat, a PC multiplayer side-scrolling shooter from back in 2002.

Gallery: The Showdown Effect (12/17/2012)

JoystiqThe Showdown Effect targets March launch, $10 price tag; beta signups tomorrow originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Dec 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowhead-game-studiosmacparadoxparadox-interactivepcsteamthe-showdown-effectMon, 17 Dec 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Magicka is $2.50 today on Steam]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/09/magicka-is-2-50-today-on-steam/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/09/magicka-is-2-50-today-on-steam/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/09/magicka-is-2-50-today-on-steam/#comments You probably haven't logged as many hours playing Magicka as we have, which makes us wonder what you've been doing all this time. Don't worry, the action-adventure jam with a nearly endless combination of mixable elements from indie dev Arrowhead Game Studios is 75 percent off today on Steam.

So, kick off your shoes and check out Magicka for $2.50 today (down from $9.99). Treat yourself. You work too hard not to.

Gallery: Magicka

JoystiqMagicka is $2.50 today on Steam originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Aug 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Arrowhead-Game-StudiosDaily-DealmagickaParadox-InteractivepcSteamThu, 09 Aug 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Magicka says 'WOOT' with new Olympics-themed DLC pack]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/06/magicka-says-woot-with-new-olympics-themed-dlc-pack/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/06/magicka-says-woot-with-new-olympics-themed-dlc-pack/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/06/magicka-says-woot-with-new-olympics-themed-dlc-pack/#comments Magicka says WOOT with new Olympicsthemed DLC packSome new content for use in Magicka's Challenge and Versus mode is set to debut tomorrow, and takes a cue from the ongoing Olympic games taking place in London right now - well, kinda. The Olympics doesn't try to kill its competitors, after all.

Magicka's WOOT Tournament DLC features four new PVP maps, three new challenge maps and a host of new items and magic spells for competing wizards. These items and spells include the Musketball Dunker - a gun that fires a volley of explosives - and the ever-important Wave maneuver, a mainstay at any sporting event.

Tomorrow's content dump will be free to all Magicka players. In the meanwhile, we've got some screens courtesy of Paradox to help pass the time, available in our gallery below.

Gallery: Magicka (Woot DLC)

JoystiqMagicka says 'WOOT' with new Olympics-themed DLC pack originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Aug 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowhead-game-studiosdlclondonmagickamagicka-woot-tournamentolympicsolympics-2012pcpieces-interactivewootMon, 06 Aug 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Magicka shows us The Other Side of the Coin on June 14]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/30/magicka-shows-us-the-other-side-of-the-coin-on-june-14/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/30/magicka-shows-us-the-other-side-of-the-coin-on-june-14/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/30/magicka-shows-us-the-other-side-of-the-coin-on-june-14/#comments Image
Arrowhead Game Studios is preparing the next DLC expansion for its wizard-powered adventure, Magicka. The Other Side of the Coin expands upon the story of Magicka by placing players in the boots of Alucart, an evil vampire who is in no way related to Alucard from Castlevania: Symphony of the Night.

The Other Side of the Coin will cost $4.99 and also includes four new challenge maps when it becomes available for download on June 14.

JoystiqMagicka shows us The Other Side of the Coin on June 14 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 May 2012 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agsarrowhead-game-studioscastlevania-symphony-of-the-nightmagickapcthe-other-side-of-the-coinWed, 30 May 2012 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Confronting The Showdown Effect and its Super Smash Bros. inspiration]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/confronting-the-showdown-effect-and-its-super-smash-bros-inspir/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/confronting-the-showdown-effect-and-its-super-smash-bros-inspir/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/confronting-the-showdown-effect-and-its-super-smash-bros-inspir/#comments The Showdown Effect, the new jam from Magicka developer Arrowhead Game Studios and newcomer Pixeldiet Entertainment, was inspired by '80s and '90s action movies, and even Nintendo's multiplayer-focused brawler, Super Smash Bros.

Emil Englund, Design Director at Arrowhead Game Studios, offered some insight regarding the creation of the game as he watched me experiment with the shotguns, pistols, rifles, pool cues, stools and rocket launchers cluttering up Neo Tokyo, 2027. The future's a pretty violent place!

Gallery: The Showdown Effect (GDC 2012)

Continue reading Confronting The Showdown Effect and its Super Smash Bros. inspiration

JoystiqConfronting The Showdown Effect and its Super Smash Bros. inspiration originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowhead-game-studiosgdc-2012macParadox-Interactivepcpixeldiet-entertainmentthe-showdown-effectThu, 08 Mar 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Face off against The Showdown Effect beta this summer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/face-off-against-the-showdown-effect-beta-this-summer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/face-off-against-the-showdown-effect-beta-this-summer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/08/face-off-against-the-showdown-effect-beta-this-summer/#comments We certainly don't blame you for wanting to play The Showdown Effect. Thankfully, here at GDC, Paradox Interactive was more than happy to oblige and sat me down in front of a PC next to Emil Englund, Design Director at Arrowhead Game Studios. But before I could place my fingers over the WASD keys and start shooting everything in sight, I had to ask one question: Will there be a beta?

"Beta in the summer," Englund quickly responded. As for how the beta will work and who will get in, Englund says "that's still being decided" by publisher Paradox Interactive, and that more would be revealed later.

Another question I had was in regards to controller support -- Magicka on the PC is compatible with Microsoft's Xbox 360 controller, and when asked if The Showdown Effect would support it too, Englund told me that the earliest testing on The Showdown Effect was done with controllers. "The first months of development we actually only used game pads so, yeah, it should be in there," he told me.

The Showdown Effect is currently slated to launch "when it's done -- in 2012."

Gallery: The Showdown Effect (GDC 2012)

JoystiqFace off against The Showdown Effect beta this summer originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowhead-game-studiosbetagdc-2012macparadox-interactivepcpixeldiet-entertainmentthe-showdown-effectThu, 08 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Paradox reveals 3 new games: The Showdown Effect, Dungeonland and Red Frontier]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/paradox-the-showdown-effect-dungeonland-red-frontier/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/paradox-the-showdown-effect-dungeonland-red-frontier/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/06/paradox-the-showdown-effect-dungeonland-red-frontier/#comments
Paradox has, as promised, revealed the next three projects in the pipeline from Arrowhead Game Studios, Critical Studio and Zeal Game Studio at GDC. Each is set to launch on the PC and Mac sometime this year.

The first game is The Showdown Effect, from Pixeldiet Entertainment and Arrowhead Game Studios -- you may recall the latter outfit's previous effort, Magicka. Paradox describes the game as "a 2.5D multiplayer action game in which players will be participating in death-matches to gain glory and fame." It's set in Neo Tokyo in the year 2027, and focuses on a cop destined to meet his ... destiny.

The second on the list is Dungeonland, from Brazil-based newcomer Critical Studio. Up to three players assault Dungeonland, a theme park where adventurers can go to hack and slash stuff together, while the fourth player takes on the role of Game Master, devising traps and overall trying to kill their friends -- sounds like the perfect role for that one passive-aggressive friend of yours.

Finally, Red Frontier is a competitive RTS that tasks players with mining resource deposits in space. Sharing is caring, guys -- even in the future we can't get along? It seems so.

Hit the jump to check out the rest of the announcement trailers and some screens, hot off the wherever screenshots come from.

Gallery: The Showdown Effect (GDC 2012)

Continue reading Paradox reveals 3 new games: The Showdown Effect, Dungeonland and Red Frontier

JoystiqParadox reveals 3 new games: The Showdown Effect, Dungeonland and Red Frontier originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowhead-game-studioscritical-studiogdc-2012macparadox-interactivepcpixeldiet-entertainmentthe-showdown-effectzeal-game-studioTue, 06 Mar 2012 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Grab Magicka for $2.50 on Steam, or free for the weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/grab-magicka-for-2-50-on-steam-or-free-for-the-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/grab-magicka-for-2-50-on-steam-or-free-for-the-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/grab-magicka-for-2-50-on-steam-or-free-for-the-weekend/#comments What's that? You still haven't experienced the boundless joy of mashing-up already hazardous incantations? That's inexcusable, but you'll be rewarded for your oversight: Steam has Magicka discounted for $2.50, and is letting users play it for free for most of the weekend!

Continue reading Grab Magicka for $2.50 on Steam, or free for the weekend

JoystiqGrab Magicka for $2.50 on Steam, or free for the weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Nov 2011 00:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowhead-game-studiosfree-to-playmagickamagicka-vietnampcsteamweekendFri, 18 Nov 2011 00:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Magicka: The Stars are Left trailer crafted with love]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/16/magicka-the-stars-are-left-trailer-crafted-with-love/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/16/magicka-the-stars-are-left-trailer-crafted-with-love/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/16/magicka-the-stars-are-left-trailer-crafted-with-love/#comments
If the world's in danger from a creeping, Cthulhu-inspired nightmare, who you gonna call? Umm, perhaps not the four wildly powerful wizards ... imbued with a clumsy tendency to immolate one another.

JoystiqMagicka: The Stars are Left trailer crafted with love originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Nov 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowhead-game-studiosdlcmagickaparadox-interactivepcthe-stars-are-leftWed, 16 Nov 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Magicka takes on Cthulhu and Minecraft in The Stars are Left expansion]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/magicka-takes-on-cthulhu-and-minecraft-in-the-stars-are-left-exp/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/magicka-takes-on-cthulhu-and-minecraft-in-the-stars-are-left-exp/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/magicka-takes-on-cthulhu-and-minecraft-in-the-stars-are-left-exp/#comments Have you and your three wizardly cohorts blown up everything in the universe using your crossbred incantations? No, friend, you haven't. Just ask the subtitle of Magicka's recently announced expansion: The Stars are Left. The add-on isn't just a commentary on your failure to destroy heavenly bodies; it will add a whole new campaign to the title featuring a "horror-mystery inspired by the popular Cthulhu Mythos." Cthul-who? (We kid.)

The campaign, which is set to launch this Winter, will feature new enemies and (assumedly tentacle-faced) bosses, items and, according to a fact sheet sent to us by Paradox Interactive, "we make fun of Minecraft this time." Man, it's about time someone took that game down a peg.

Continue reading Magicka takes on Cthulhu and Minecraft in The Stars are Left expansion

JoystiqMagicka takes on Cthulhu and Minecraft in The Stars are Left expansion originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowhead-game-studiosdlcexpansionmagickamagicka-the-stars-are-leftParadox-InteractivepcThu, 27 Oct 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Magicka PVP update released, new DLC available]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/magicka-pvp-update-released-new-dlc-available/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/magicka-pvp-update-released-new-dlc-available/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/magicka-pvp-update-released-new-dlc-available/#comments As promised, new player-versus-player content has been released for Magicka. The free update features three new modes including Classic Deathmatch and a last-man-standing mode called Brawl. The Krietor mode, named after a Magicka modder, unlocks new spells -- and thus new strategic possibilities -- as the round progresses.

New Magicka DLC is up for purchase as well. First is the Final Frontier pack, priced at $2.99, which includes the Vulcanus Arena map and some new sci-fi goodies (remember that episode of Star Trek?). Also, for $1.99 each, players can pick up the Frozen Lake map, the Watchtower map or the Party Robe pack.

Continue reading Magicka PVP update released, new DLC available

JoystiqMagicka PVP update released, new DLC available originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Jun 2011 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowhead-game-studiosdlcmagickaParadox-InteractivepcstrategyThu, 23 Jun 2011 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Magicka PvP patch dated for June 21]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/06/magicka-pvp-patch-dated-for-june-21/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/06/magicka-pvp-patch-dated-for-june-21/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/06/magicka-pvp-patch-dated-for-june-21/#comments Arrowhead has finally conjured up a launch date for its proposed PvP patch for Magicka, details on which were previously reported. The patch is free and releases on June 21, allowing up to four mages to step into the arena and duke it out a test of willpower.

Hit the jump for the press release and a new trailer showing off the dangers of locking four mages in a closed-off environment. Nobody puts mage in the corner!

Continue reading Magicka PvP patch dated for June 21

JoystiqMagicka PvP patch dated for June 21 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Jun 2011 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowhead-game-studiose3-2011magickaparadoxParadox-InteractivepatchpcpvpMon, 06 Jun 2011 11:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Magicka PvP patch changes detailed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/magicka-pvp-patch-changes-detailed/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/magicka-pvp-patch-changes-detailed/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/magicka-pvp-patch-changes-detailed/#comments A PvP patch is currently in development for Magicka (sure, we knew that) but Arrowhead Games Studio CEO Johan Pilestedt has offered a clearer picture of what to expect in a post on PC Gamer -- one that details measures being taken to ensure play balance in the patch.

Continue reading Magicka PvP patch changes detailed

JoystiqMagicka PvP patch changes detailed originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 May 2011 23:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowhead-game-studiosmagickaParadox-InteractivepatchpcpvpupdateMon, 23 May 2011 23:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Magicka: Vietnam dev happy to 'save the world from communists']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/magicka-vietnam-dev-happy-to-save-the-world-from-communists/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/magicka-vietnam-dev-happy-to-save-the-world-from-communists/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/magicka-vietnam-dev-happy-to-save-the-world-from-communists/#comments You might've thought that the success of Call of Duty: Black Ops and Battlefield: Bad Company 2's Vietnam expansion were what precipitated the tongue-in-cheek Vietnam expansion for Magicka. As it turns out, the folks at Arrowhead just want to save the world from communism!

Continue reading Magicka: Vietnam dev happy to 'save the world from communists'

JoystiqMagicka: Vietnam dev happy to 'save the world from communists' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Apr 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowhead-game-studiosmacmagickamagicka-vietnamparadoxparadox-interactivepcThu, 14 Apr 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Magicka: Vietnam footage has no creedence with us]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/magicka-vietnam-footage-has-no-creedence-with-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/magicka-vietnam-footage-has-no-creedence-with-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/magicka-vietnam-footage-has-no-creedence-with-us/#comments Unbelievable. We watched the whole preview for Magicka: Vietnam after the break and while yes, there are a lot of guns, grenades, trees and helicopters, there's not a single strain of Creedence Clearwater Revival's "Fortunate Son." In a game about Vietnam! Is that even legal?

[Thanks, J]

Continue reading Magicka: Vietnam footage has no creedence with us

JoystiqMagicka: Vietnam footage has no creedence with us originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowhead-game-studiosdlcmagicka-vietnampcWed, 06 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[What's in a Name: Arrowhead Game Studios]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/01/whats-in-a-name-arrowhead-game-studios/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/01/whats-in-a-name-arrowhead-game-studios/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/01/whats-in-a-name-arrowhead-game-studios/#comments Arrowhead Game Studios Johan Pilestedt is CEO of Arrowhead Game Studios, the Swedish developer responsible for Magicka. He recently revealed to us the origin of the studio's name and the meaning behind its seemingly dim-witted mascot.

Originally, when the studio was just a "student project," the group called themselves Team Arrowhead. "Arrowhead" was a play on Pilestedt's name, which, in English, means "arrow stead." "But wait, there's more to this story!" says Pilestedt.

Continue reading What's in a Name: Arrowhead Game Studios

JoystiqWhat's in a Name: Arrowhead Game Studios originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Apr 2011 19:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Arrowhead-Game-StudiosJohan-PilestedtMagickapcwhats-in-a-nameFri, 01 Apr 2011 19:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Magicka: Vietnam is seriously coming out April 12]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/magicka-vietnam-is-seriously-coming-out-april-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/magicka-vietnam-is-seriously-coming-out-april-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/31/magicka-vietnam-is-seriously-coming-out-april-12/#comments Okay, we're starting to believe that Paradox Interactive and Arrowhead Game Studios' upcoming expansion to their successful, arcane action-RPG, Magicka: Vietnam, is not the most elaborate hoax ever pulled on the gaming industry. See, we were operating under that assumption, but earlier today the creators revealed 10 screenshots for the add-on, and gave it some formal release details: It's coming to "all major digital distribution channels" April 12 for $4.99.

We're excited to check out this bizarre-sounding addition to Magicka -- especially after perusing the gallery below -- but we're going to temper our excitement for another 36 hours or so. Tomorrow would be an awfully appropriate day for the developers to reveal that we all done got goofed.

Gallery: Magicka: Vietnam (3/31/11)

JoystiqMagicka: Vietnam is seriously coming out April 12 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 Mar 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowhead-game-studiosmagickamagicka-vietnamparadox-interactivepcq2-2011release-datevietnamThu, 31 Mar 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Official Magicka (bath) robe will soak up $85 from your wallet]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/29/official-magicka-bath-robe-will-soak-up-85-from-your-wallet/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/29/official-magicka-bath-robe-will-soak-up-85-from-your-wallet/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/29/official-magicka-bath-robe-will-soak-up-85-from-your-wallet/#comments Whether you've played Magicka or not, there's a good chance you're familiar with its iconic wizard robes. Now, thanks to Sinn D'Signed (a.k.a. Cindy Guillermo, gaming fashionista), you can grab a Magicka bathrobe for $85. The robes are available in red, green, blue and yellow and will be up for pre-order until April 11.

Alas, the robe won't grant you any magical powers, though it's 100-percent cotton terry cloth construction should impress your friends nonetheless.

JoystiqOfficial Magicka (bath) robe will soak up $85 from your wallet originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Mar 2011 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowhead-game-studiosbathrobeculturemagickaParadox-Interactivepcsinn-d-signedTue, 29 Mar 2011 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Magicka devs say work on PvP starts after Vietnam]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/20/magicka-devs-say-pvp-works-starts-after-vietnam/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/20/magicka-devs-say-pvp-works-starts-after-vietnam/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/20/magicka-devs-say-pvp-works-starts-after-vietnam/#comments Arrowhead already created the funniest premise for an expansion this year with Magicka: Vietnam, and it seems the developer has already decided how it will follow up that triumph: Player-vs-player combat.

A pair of messages on the game's official Twitter page read, "How about an achievement for defeating a developer/paradox? A good way to vent your frustration - yes? Wait, we need PvP for that ... we better build it right after then."

We knew PvP was in the works, but it's nice to have something approximating a timetable for official support. Here's hoping we'll be accidentally setting ourselves on fire -- in an ill-fated attempt to set you on fire -- soon.

JoystiqMagicka devs say work on PvP starts after Vietnam originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 20 Mar 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowhead-game-studiosdlcmagickaparadoxpcpvptwitterSun, 20 Mar 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Magicka on consoles is 'up to Sony and Microsoft' right now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/02/magicka-on-consoles-is-up-to-sony-and-microsoft-right-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/02/magicka-on-consoles-is-up-to-sony-and-microsoft-right-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/02/magicka-on-consoles-is-up-to-sony-and-microsoft-right-now/#comments There's been talk of bringing Magicka to the PS3 and Xbox 360 for some time now. Developer Arrowhead Game Studios has been quite vocal about wanting to bring the game to "all consoles," but right now, it would seem there's a considerable roadblack. Speaking with Arrowhead CEO Johan Pilestedt, we asked him what the delay in conjuring a console port was.
"We're working on bringing Magicka to consoles -- we are, really. The problem is that it's not up to us. It's up to Sony and Microsoft, really, but we're working on getting it to consoles. That's the way it should be played."
It would appear for now, at least, the only way to get that console feeling is to play on PC with an Xbox 360 controller.

JoystiqMagicka on consoles is 'up to Sony and Microsoft' right now originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Mar 2011 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowheadarrowhead-game-studiosgdc-2011magickamicrosoftparadoxplaystationps3xboxWed, 02 Mar 2011 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Magicka Vietnam to launch 'in about a month,' Arrowhead CEO says]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/02/magicka-vietnam-to-launch-in-about-a-month-arrowhead-ceo-says/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/02/magicka-vietnam-to-launch-in-about-a-month-arrowhead-ceo-says/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/02/magicka-vietnam-to-launch-in-about-a-month-arrowhead-ceo-says/#comments If there's one thing that Arrowhead Game Studios has proven with its accident-prone wizardfest Magicka, it's that they can make me laugh. But is that an appropriate reaction in Magicka Vietnam? Arrowhead Game Studios CEO Johan Pilestedt suggested that we'll find out "in about a month."

Gallery: Magicka

Continue reading Magicka Vietnam to launch 'in about a month,' Arrowhead CEO says

JoystiqMagicka Vietnam to launch 'in about a month,' Arrowhead CEO says originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Mar 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowhead-game-studiosgdc-2011johan-pilestedtmagickamagicka-vietnamParadox-InteractivepcWed, 02 Mar 2011 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Magicka: Vietnam expansion announced (no joke!)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/01/magicka-vietnam-expansion/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/01/magicka-vietnam-expansion/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/01/magicka-vietnam-expansion/#comments Well, this is certainly unexpected. We guess Magicka publisher Paradox Interactive wasn't kidding when it said developer Arrowhead Studios would be "a bit daring" with the title's first expansion. Said add-on was revealed today -- and it will take the game's magic-mashing protagonists and drop them into the war-torn jungles of Vietnam. Just check out the debut trailer after the jump!

We've got an appointment to check out Magicka: Vietnam today at GDC, and we'll make sure to let you know if it's just as bizarre as we're assuming it is. Update: Vietnam was not on hand, but we talked about it with Arrowhead. Stay tuned for our coverage.

Continue reading Magicka: Vietnam expansion announced (no joke!)

JoystiqMagicka: Vietnam expansion announced (no joke!) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Mar 2011 13:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowhead-game-studiosdlcexpansiongdc-2011magickamagicka-vietnamParadox-InteractivepcvietnamTue, 01 Mar 2011 13:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Magicka to get PvP in the future, Arrowhead CEO explains]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/23/magicka-to-get-pvp-in-the-future-arrowhead-ceo-explains/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/23/magicka-to-get-pvp-in-the-future-arrowhead-ceo-explains/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/23/magicka-to-get-pvp-in-the-future-arrowhead-ceo-explains/#comments Magicka has been a surprise hit on the PC scene, selling over 200K copies in its first month of release. But, the initial launch was hampered by some notable bugs, some of which continue to plague the game. "We were surprised at all the bugs we had at release, and frankly, somewhat ashamed," Johan Pilestedt, CEO of Arrowhead told us. "But the community loved our game, and we worked around the clock for the first weeks after release to iron out as many bugs as possible as fast as possible." Although the game is currently in the state "as it was intended," Pilestedt discussed what must still be fixed.

At the top of the list is falling through collision, something the team plans to work on "until it is no longer an issue." Arrowhead is also attempting to improve progression saving and will eventually implement official support for PvP. "The community is already arranging PvP tournaments and we are learning a lot about balance by watching you play," Pilestedt said. "In the meantime, I suggest you sign up for the unofficial tournaments and keep PvPing."

There are some issues that simply cannot be fixed, Pilestedt admits. The most disappointing is the inability to support integrated graphics cards. Laptop owners may be unable to play the game, but Pilestedt notes that "it was an early design decision to use shader model 3.0, and we can't change that without rewriting large parts of the game engine." The team doesn't plan on adding support for modding, simply because they "do not have the bandwidth to develop [the] tools." In lieu of official support, the team is focused on making Magicka "more mod friendly," by allowing modders to disable VAC in the game.

In addition to the aforementioned tweaks, Pilestedt re-confirmed plans to release both free and paid DLC content for the game. "Since Magicka released, the game and our team has received so much support and encouragement from all over the world and we want everyone to know how much we appreciate that."

JoystiqMagicka to get PvP in the future, Arrowhead CEO explains originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Feb 2011 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowhead-game-studiosjohan-pilestedtmagickaparadox-interactivepcpvpWed, 23 Feb 2011 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Magicka video warns about the dangers of real-life magic mixing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/magicka-video-warns-about-the-dangers-of-real-life-magic-mixing/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/magicka-video-warns-about-the-dangers-of-real-life-magic-mixing/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/15/magicka-video-warns-about-the-dangers-of-real-life-magic-mixing/#comments See, when people think about real-life magic, they often assume it to be a whimsical, Harry Potter-esque venture. We believe things would actually turn out like they do in PulpitPower's latest video, inspired by Magicka: Full of accidents, terror and errant beams of deadly arcane power.

Continue reading Magicka video warns about the dangers of real-life magic mixing

JoystiqMagicka video warns about the dangers of real-life magic mixing originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Feb 2011 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowhead-game-studiosmagickaParadox-InteractivepcTue, 15 Feb 2011 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Magicka reaches 200K sales, Arrowhead planning free and paid DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/12/magicka-reaches-200k-sales-arrowhead-planning-free-and-paid-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/12/magicka-reaches-200k-sales-arrowhead-planning-free-and-paid-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/12/magicka-reaches-200k-sales-arrowhead-planning-free-and-paid-dlc/#comments Almost a quarter of a million close friends have had their relationships dissolved by errant spells and irresponsible casting, thanks to the inadvertently hilarious co-op component of Magicka. Developer Arrowhead Game Studios reports that the title has been downloaded over 200,000 times in its first 17 days on sale. Better yet, thanks to a patch that launched yesterday on Steam, a majority of those 200,000 players can enjoy the game without the fear of frequent crashes.

In an interview with Big Download, publisher Paradox Interactive's Mattias Lilja revealed that the team plans to release both paid and free DLC for the game, explaining, "The Arrowhead team asked if they could be a bit daring when it comes to the DLC and we told them yes." He added, "The team is set up in such a way that some guys can keep patching the game while others produce DLC, without getting in the way of each other or stealing resources from one another." No, they save that unsportsmanlike conduct for when they're actually playing Magicka. You know, with "friends."

JoystiqMagicka reaches 200K sales, Arrowhead planning free and paid DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 12 Feb 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowhead-game-studiosdlcmagickaParadox-InteractivepcsalesSat, 12 Feb 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Paradox CEO insists Magicka will be fixed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/paradox-ceo-insists-magicka-will-be-fixed/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/paradox-ceo-insists-magicka-will-be-fixed/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/paradox-ceo-insists-magicka-will-be-fixed/#comments By all the reports we've heard from friends and colleagues, Paradox's satirical fantasy game Magicka is long on charm, but short on polish. Online modes are apparently the roughest, with some completely unable to access co-op, though the kinks in single player seem to be relatively few.

Speaking with Ars Technica (which experienced a bevy of issues with the game), Paradox boss Fredrik Wesker pledged that developer Arrowhead Studios would exterminate the bugs as quickly as possible, saying "The development team is working around the clock and we will get this fixed. We will make this right." Wesker also explained how something like this happens in the first place, which is an interesting glimpse into the realities of being a small publisher.

Here's hoping that soon, the only freezes in Magicka will be delivered by friends with poor aim.

JoystiqParadox CEO insists Magicka will be fixed originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Jan 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowhead-game-studiosbugsmagickaparadoxpcFri, 28 Jan 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Magicka sells 30,000 on first day, being patched 'as often as possible']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/26/magicka-sells-30-000-on-first-day-being-patched-as-often-as-po/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/26/magicka-sells-30-000-on-first-day-being-patched-as-often-as-po/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/26/magicka-sells-30-000-on-first-day-being-patched-as-often-as-po/#comments
 Magicka, the Paradox-published story of up to four wizards assaulting monsters and accidentally killing each other with ill-advised spell combinations, has sold 30,000 copies within its first day of availability through digital distribution. The celebration is tempered, however -- while they were pushing it to the top of Steam's sales chart, players of the game complained on forums and Twitter about technical instability and bugs. Ars Technica found the game especially problematic, calling it a "broken, negligent release."

Paradox has summarized the current status of Magicka as such: "[Singe-player] works fine for the most part, Multiplayer does not -- patch on the way for both! (as soon as [Steam] pushes the button). We'll patch the game as often as possible." According to a celebratory press release, Arrowhead Game Studios is "working around the sundial and is fully committed to ongoing support by zapping glitches and communicating with players."

The game's unpolished state would likely have generated even more caustic reaction, had its malleable magic system not countered with amusing stories of players haphazardly offing each other. You'll find some good, spell-based schadenfreude in Rock Paper Shotgun's mock guide to Magicka.

Continue reading Magicka sells 30,000 on first day, being patched 'as often as possible'

JoystiqMagicka sells 30,000 on first day, being patched 'as often as possible' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 Jan 2011 15:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowhead-game-studiosbugsdigital-distributionmagickaparadox-interactivepatchpcsalessteamWed, 26 Jan 2011 15:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Magicka cast on PC digital retail today, demo summoned on Steam]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/magicka-cast-on-pc-digital-retail-today-demo-summoned-on-steam/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/magicka-cast-on-pc-digital-retail-today-demo-summoned-on-steam/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/magicka-cast-on-pc-digital-retail-today-demo-summoned-on-steam/#comments Paradox Interactive has narrowly upheld its promise to release the PC version of Magicka this month, as the publisher's "self-deprecating" action-misadventure -- "which pokes fun of other games just to feel better about itself" -- is today available from digital distribution retailers, including Steam, GamersGate and Amazon Digital Services, for $10. (A demo version is also available through Steam.)

Developed by Swedish outfit Arrowhead Game Studios, Magicka features "the parody and satire of a clichéd fantasy world," one-upping the similarly irreverent DeathSpank with support for up to 4-player co-op. Of course, there's no sign of unicorn poop in the launch trailer (after the break) -- so definitely a missed opportunity there.

Continue reading Magicka cast on PC digital retail today, demo summoned on Steam

JoystiqMagicka cast on PC digital retail today, demo summoned on Steam originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 25 Jan 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowhead-game-studiosdemomagickaparadox-interactivepcpricingrelease-datesteamTue, 25 Jan 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ESRB rates Magicka for PS3 and 360, Paradox still hoping for multiplatform release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/21/esrb-rates-magicka-for-ps3-and-360-paradox-still-hoping-for-mul/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/21/esrb-rates-magicka-for-ps3-and-360-paradox-still-hoping-for-mul/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/21/esrb-rates-magicka-for-ps3-and-360-paradox-still-hoping-for-mul/#comments A ray of hope has been cast on the chances of lighthearted action RPG Magicka arriving on consoles. The game has been rated by the ESRB for both Xbox 360 and PS3 (the PC version should launch this month). Now, before co-op dungeon crawler fans get too excited, know that the ESRB is a fickle mistress and not always the prognosticator we believe it to be.

It's no secret that Paradox is looking to get Magicka on "all consoles". When reached for comment about the ESRB rating, Paradox producer Shams Jorjani told Joystiq the the company is "covering [its] bases." He added that the game was built using XNA so it will run on Xbox 360. He concluded, "We are doing everything we can to get this game where it belongs: In front of your couch."

It's worth noting that Paradox originally intended to release its class-based shooter, Lead & Gold, in a more multiplatform manner. It was eventually released for PC and PSN, and the XBLA version never came to light. Here's hoping Paradox has ironed out the multiplatform kinks this time around.

JoystiqESRB rates Magicka for PS3 and 360, Paradox still hoping for multiplatform release originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Jan 2011 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowhead-game-studiosesrbmagickamicrosoftParadox-Interactiveplaystationps3psnxblaxboxFri, 21 Jan 2011 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Magicka trailer adorably announces game's delay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/13/magicka-trailer-adorably-announces-games-delay/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/13/magicka-trailer-adorably-announces-games-delay/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/13/magicka-trailer-adorably-announces-games-delay/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Few games have announced their own delays as cheerfully as Arrowhead Game Studios' Magicka. The latest trailer for the game -- the first we've seen in many moons -- tells a cute tale about why it's been pushed to "Q1 2011," alongside a handful of gameplay clips. See for yourself below the fold.

Continue reading Magicka trailer adorably announces game's delay

JoystiqMagicka trailer adorably announces game's delay originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Sep 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrowhead-game-studiosdelaysmagickamicrosoftparadoxparadox-interactivepcq1-2011release-datexblaxboxMon, 13 Sep 2010 13:30:00 EST